The city of Manchester appeals to
me as a location for studying, due to its unique and vibrant cultural scene.
Exposure to this ever changing city would provide an inspiring backdrop to my
studies, and the atmosphere of the city would doubtless influence my journey
through the School of Architecture and I believe this would help me to achieve
my potential.
As part of my IB course I have written an
Extended Essay on the subject of the Shard, a building which has raised a lot of
controversy upon its completion. The research process, and the justification of
Renzo Piano of placing this modern structure in the location he did enlightened
me about the differing perspectives of what is deemed to be ‘correct’
architecture. This also led me to examine the works of Le Corbusier, in
particular the Ville Savoye, in connection with my investigation of the style
of Brutalism. I was inspired by the ideas of Le Corbusier on the respective
importance and function of architecture and engineering within society.
Recently I have had the opportunity to visit
the city of Bath. This city fascinated me due to its architectural heritage.
The buildings drew my attention and interest to the Gothic style, and I found
that this experience aided me in my own work, as it enabled me to visualize and
understand the characteristics of this style with better clarity. I studied a
similar building of the Baroque style, St Pauls Cathedral, and I found that
this experience was reflected in this study. One building of this style which
has captured my interest is Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, not only due to the
immense intricacy of the design and structure, but also due to the building’s
history. I also find the unique scale of the construction fascinating.
I believe that studying at the Manchester
School of Architecture would enable me to convert my ambitions and interests in
architecture into something of substance.
Visiting the School and generating a taste for the course led me to
believe that it would guide me in developing my individual style and allow me
to gain the instrumental experience that will drive me forward into my career
in architecture.
